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Dettah Bay Conservation Area adventures

Dettah Bay Conservation Area Adventures

Dettah Bay Conservation Area is a protected natural region near Yellowknife, offering pristine boreal landscapes and excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation in Canada’s Northwest Territories.

Approx. 1,500
Acres Protected
12
Miles of Trails
5,000 - 7,000 (estimated)
Annual Visitors
2005
Year Established

About Dettah Bay Conservation Area

 

Dettah Bay Conservation Area is situated on the eastern shore of Great Slave Lake, close to the community of Dettah and just a short distance from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. The area preserves a beautiful section of boreal forest and shoreline habitat characterized by mixed woodlands, wetlands, and rocky outcrops. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including boreal songbirds, moose, beaver, and a variety of freshwater fish species such as lake trout and northern pike. The conservation area is culturally significant to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, whose heritage and traditional land use continue to shape stewardship practices in the region. Visitors are drawn to Dettah Bay for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and scenic observation, with opportunities to explore both forest interiors and lakefront environments. Access to the area is relatively easy during the summer months, with well-maintained trails and boat launches. Winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing on Great Slave Lake. The proximity to Yellowknife makes it a favored local getaway for residents and tourists seeking a wilderness experience without extensive travel, while its protected status ensures the conservation of its natural landscapes and cultural values for future generations.

Highlights

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Scenic shoreline views of Great Slave Lake

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Abundant fishing opportunities for lake trout and northern pike

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Traditional land use sites of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation

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Well-marked trails traversing boreal forest and wetland habitats

Notable Natural Features

Great Slave Lake Shoreline

Offers beautiful panoramic views of one of the largest lakes in North America, with opportunities for boating and fishing.

Boreal Forest Habitat

Supports diverse plant and animal species typical of the northern boreal ecosystem, including moose and migratory birds.

Yellowknives Dene Cultural Sites

Traditional fishing and hunting sites used historically and today by local Indigenous peoples, highlighting the cultural significance of the area.